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Saint Paul
Friday, March 29, 2024

Immigration

immigrationIn his 2014 message for World Day of Migrants and Refugees, Pope Francis offers a reminder that Jesus, Mary and Joseph — the Holy Family — experienced first-hand the life of migrants. Today, many families migrate to the United States to flee religious persecution, economic depression, lack of resources and employment, unstable governments and dire poverty.

A broken American immigration system has also contributed to a national problem. In response, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, while accepting the legitimate role of the government in protecting its borders and intercepting unauthorized migrants, believes that comprehensive immigration reform is needed.

The migrant is a human person who possesses fundamental, inalienable rights that must be respected by everyone and in every circumstance.2

A good reform package would create more opportunities for migrants to enter, live and work in the U.S. so that law enforcement will be better able to focus on those who truly threaten public safety. Comprehensive reform should offer a pathway to citizenship (not “amnesty”) for the almost 11 million undocumented people living in the United States who aspire to be citizens. It should also be family-based, meaning the number of years it currently takes for family members to be reunited after separation must be reduced.

Finally, truly comprehensive reform must address the root causes of migration, such as violence and political unrest in the countries of origin; economic and trade policy; as well as the need for social reform and integral development.  Immigration will continue to be a national concern until foreign and domestic units of government reform their laws in a manner that upholds the dignity every human being deserves.

  • Where does the congressional candidate stand on comprehensive immigration reform and the need for expedited family reunification?
  • At the state level, where does the candidate stand on giving undocumented persons greater access to health care and transportation options to protect their dignity and support their families?

 

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